How can I help my mom choose the best health plan and prescription drug plan for her needs?

September 20, 2009 by admin

The Medicare Prescription Drug Plan Finder can help a caregiver living in another state find the most appropriate health and prescription drug plan for their loved one by using a computer. The State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) can also help. SHIP is a national program that offers one-on-one counseling and assistance to people with Medicare and their families. Through federal grants directed to states, SHIPs provide free counseling and assistance via telephone and face-to-face interactive sessions, public education presentations and programs, and media activities. If you want to know more about the SHIP program in your state, or you want to contact a SHIP counselor in your area, please go to the SHIP Contact Information section of this web site. They can answer your questions about:

• Choosing a managed care plan
• Deciding between original Medicare (fee-for-service) and managed care
• Understanding your new health plan choices
• How to understand your Medicare bill
• How/whether to purchase additional health insurance (Medigap policy, long-term care insurance, etc.)
• Understanding how to appeal payment denials
• Understanding your Medicare rights/protections and how to submit a complaint about medical care or treatment